Sunday, February 7, 2010

Design Trend -Oeil de Boeuf

I love the oeil-de-boeuf (pronounced "er-duh-BURF") windows you see on the charming buildings all over Paris.

(paris parfait)

Oeil de boeuf translates to eye of the bull, but its a common french term for small circular or oval zinc window. (paris parfait)

I have had a love for these zinc treasures since I saw them years ago sitting askew on their sides at flea markets in Paris. I wanted to hang one outside in my garden as a lovely focal point. But, at that time I lived in a small apartment with no garden, so the Oeil de Boeuf was not meant to be.(iris monument)

Still I always have loved the wonderful patina and shape. I thought as the years went on that they would look fabulous indoors too - and I imagined them with mirrors in the center. They were large, but I loved the architectural interest and the chalky finish.(avignon antiques)Here is a wonderful example of a classic shaped oeil de boeuf - this one has been made into a mirror. Look at the beautiful curves and patina on this piece. Gorgeous!(interior mitigation)Recently we have started to see a design trend and these oeil de boeuf mirrors are popping up everywhere. As they are getting more popular we are seeing many reproduced in wood or plaster and painted to mimic aged zinc. You can find the classic shaped oeil de boeuf re created in wood and made into a mirror at both Wisteria and Restoration Hardware. As reproductions go this one above is lovely(eron johnson antiques)

Because the original zinc pieces are not massed produced; they are varied as the craftsmen who create them. You will notice several different shapes, the one above is very unique and has also been made into a mirror. Let's take a look at the architectural zinc window/mirror in some rooms:

(tongue in cheek)

Here is a wonderful one in a living room. I love the way the zinc curves on both the top and bottom of this piece.

(tongue in cheek)

This room is sublime - Linen curtains on iron rods, industrial coffee table amid wonderful antiques. This oeil de beouf looks spectacular in this room. I love the finial on top.

(cote de texas)

The chalky finish is a perfect compliment to the Swedish chest.

These mirrors also look fabulous in a garden room.

It adds so much interest to this more contemporary space. I love how its leaning behind the headboard. (interior eden)

Finally, even this reproduction makes a lovely focal point. Made into mirrors they seem to fit into so many different styles. Have any of you used these in your home decor? I would love to see photos and hear your thoughts!

Yes, it is a very hot trend right now and they are popping up everywhere. As you stated, Restoration Hardware has many of them and we have a small French shop in Liberty, Mo that carries them as well. I would love to have one; however, I've so many mirrors in my house right now that there is nowhere to put another mirror. Thanks for the history lesson on them, as I had no idea what they were called. Really enjoyed all of your pictures.

Thank you for posting a comment on my new blog. I really appreciate it. As you could see from my blogroll where I have yours listed, I've been reading your blog for a while. (It's also nice to see another "Gina". Gina@www.3ringcottage.blogspot.com

Wow, Gina, these windows & mirrors are fantastic!! Not only have I learned something new from reading your post, but I think I may have a new design crush!! Every oeil de boeuf you found is absolutely beautiful, and that bluey grey finish is gorgeous.

I have seen these made into mirrors in a couple of interior magazines and never knew what they were called. Infact, when I was trying to say the word, my daughters were here with me and laughing at my pronounciation! I think we have the next big thing in the interior world!! Would love one of these myself. Gorgeous.By the way, loved seeing your pictures of your home, beautiful!Take Care.JanineXXOOTasmania, Australia

I bought one of these fab zinc windows~~I have been calling it a dormer~~years ago from a guy who had 5 of them, with no idea of what I would do with it. I knew it was unique and bought it anyway. It now resides atop my garden cottage. I would never part with it.

Wow! what a great collection. I love all the different shapes and the materals...zinc!Great photos esp. love the bedroom with the wallpapered headboard wall and tongue and cheek living room. Fantastic!

Beautiful, just beautiful! I have always loved these, but never seen one claose up, until I went into Anthopoligie one day, and there was my dream window. If only I had a ga-zillion dollars to buy one. At least, it might as well have been that price, becasue it was so dear that I could not possibly afford it. [sigh] Oh well, they're pretty anyway!

site

AddThis

DISCLAIMER

All photos and content on Willow Decor are featured based upon my personal admiration for the exceptional talents of the architects, interior designers, architectural photographers, artists and homeowners. Willow Decor tries to credit these talented profesionals by identifying them, linking back to their websites and providing contact information, if possible. If you prefer your work not to be featured please email me at willowdecormail@gmail.com.